I am an Internist who also happens to use MetanX for chemotx related neuropathy. Approximately 3-4wks after starting the one capsule twice daily dosing, I began to have aching and pain and stiffness in both upper and lower extremities. Specifically affecting my hands to elbows and feet at least to my knees. I hadn't had this type of neuropathic pain to THIS degree for at least a couple years, which is when I began a pain regimen that included lyrica. Being quite concerned about my new symptoms, that clearly correlated with initiation of MetanX, I contacted my PCP & pain specialist as well as my podiatrist. They each had a differing opinion and admitted to fairly little experience in prescribing the medication. I then called the manufacturer and was put in touch with an RN that works for their company. She reassured me that increased pain before the expected response of becoming pain free and independent... is to be expected.

I am about 3wks into the increased amount of extremity pain, and the manufactuerer's RN has advised me to give it "several more weeks" (she suggested 2-3months) because the fact that I have increased pain indicates that the medication is working... it "just needs more time". The most concerning part was that the RN told me it may be the worst time to just stop taking MetanX b/c she's had patients stay in this "heightened pain status" if they just stop and don't try to work through the pain to get to the other end and be pain free. If the stop the MetanX during this "heightened state", they not uncommonly stay indefinitely in this "heightened state". My inclination is to stop taking MetanX. I started a medication, and I have acquired some really significant and at times completely debilitating side effects. But on the other hand, who would want to stay in this "heightened state" of pain?? Anyone with similar WORSENING of symptoms or if someone, more importantly, endured that state and in hind site is now much better, well I would love to hear from y'all. Thanks in advance for any help that may be out there.

I am in the opposite side of your experience, although I would never pretend to know chemo pain and the pain that goes with it. I am calling BS on the nurse, paid by the drug company, scaring you with heightened pain the rest of your life. I don't like how they are working with you. I began having more than the usual amount of fibromyalgia exhaustion. I started losing my balance, mid-Jan 2016- until May. I fell. and i was so weak I could not stand. I was in the hospital, and a physical rehab center 'til May. I am taking the largest amount of Neurontin they feel is safe. No-one knows why I have weakness, exhaustion and agony in my front arms and hands and calves and feet. I started taking MetanX the last week in April(2016). I am still having reduced sensation, and now pins and needles. My hunch is, you should follow through with your pain doctors best educated guess. We are all a different set of pains, illness, health and viatality.

I don't know where where you live, but for a time I was in Minnesota, and every person I saw around my pain had given up, I went to a Chinese doctor. I honestly had no hope, other than it was something I could at least try. She had me fill out a very comprehensive medical synopsis, and we met. She explained what she would be doing, and began. I also had to make a tea of what I thought looked like leaves, twigs and dried mushrooms. Within a week I was back to walking, relatively well. After a month, everything pain and inflammation wise, was fine. Until this year. Now I live a 585 miles away, and I am about to tear out my hair. I really hope you can try to hold onto hope-my Best wishes to you.

I'm in a similar situation, though much earlier in my treatment with Metanx for small fibre neuropathy. I started taking Metanx four days ago, once a day, but yesterday, I experienced significant back aches. I did not take the pill today, and I feel maybe 5% better, but I'm concerned with what the RN told you about lingering pain after using the drug. Did your pain ever resolve? Or did you continue to take the drug and see some resolution? I appreciate any response you might give.

How are you doing-have you felt better? I am in pain all the time, maybe fibromyalgia pain, failed back syndrome, and a newly herniated disc in my neckI. I was thinking about your situation and hoping you are well. I have had severe pain for most of my life, but never what you described. Best wishes!